Updated Hyundai IONIQ 5 looms
Bigger battery, more tech and nicer ride headline changes to UK-spec EV; details for Oz TBCThe Australian Hyundai IONIQ 5 line-up could be in store for a rapid update and expansion later this year if upgrades just applied to the UK versions join the more affordable variant of the ground-breaking EV already promised by Hyundai Motor Company Australia (HMCA).
The headline act of the British-market changes is a larger battery capacity, from 72.6kWh to 77.4kWh, plus an optional new battery conditioning system designed to reduce charging times.
It remains to be seen what effect the bigger battery capacity will have on the 2021 carsales Car of the Year’s driving range, power outputs or energy consumption, but the battery conditioning feature is said to enhance charging efficiency around the clock and in all climates.
“The new battery conditioning feature will enable IONIQ 5 to automatically adapt its battery temperature while travelling to ensure optimal charging conditions when reaching the charging point, improving real-life charging performance in hot or cold ambient conditions,” Hyundai Motor UK said in a statement.
“This function activates automatically when a charging point is entered into the vehicle’s navigation system using connected routing.”
Other running changes include the addition of optional digital mirrors – rear-view and wing – as seen on the upcoming Genesis GV60 and new ‘smart frequency’ rear dampers that promise improved ride comfort and tighter body control.
HMCA is yet to confirm any of these updates for the Australian market or provide an update on the progress of the more budget-friendly version it promised back in October.
Details are still thin on the ground, but at least one new entry-level variant is expected to rely on a single-motor drivetrain backed by a smaller 58kWh battery – as seen in the UK and New Zealand, for example – and take a hit in terms of standard equipment.
carsales has contacted HMCA for details, but smaller wheels, fabric trim, a solid roof and manual seat controls are all likely on the agenda for the new range-opening IONIQ 5.
A second batch of IONIQ 5s became available to order on January 27 after an initial allocation of 240 examples sold out nationally in two hours in October, followed by 100 units for NSW residents in December.
Related: Hyundai IONIQ 5 named 2021 carsales Car of the Year
Related: Cheaper Hyundai IONIQ 5 coming
Related: Hyundai IONIQ 5 2021 Review
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